Wallaby David Porecki extends deal with Rugby Australia and Waratahs

The Wallabies’ most recent captain David Porecki has re-signed with Rugby Australia and the NSW Waratahs until at least the end of 2026.

Porecki, 31, debuted in Wallaby gold against England in 2022 and has gone on to represent Australia on 19 occasions – including during last year’s World Cup campaign in France.

The hooker, who has penned a two-year contract extension on top of his current deal which expires at the end of 2024, became the Wallabies’ 88^th captain at the sport’s showpiece event. With Will Skelton out injured, Porecki led the team in three of four pool matches.

Alongside world-class number eight Rob Valetini, Porecki was one of just two players to start every Test match under then-coach Eddie Jones in 2023.

So, for Rugby Australia and the NSW Waratahs to secure the services of the 19-Test Wallaby for the next few years is a major coup ahead of the British and Irish Lions Tour in 2025.

“I couldn’t be happier to re-sign with the NSW Waratahs and Australian rugby for a further two years,” Porecki said in a statement.

“Since returning home I’ve been able to achieve some of my personal goals, but I know I’ve got plenty more to contribute and will be continuing to work hard to be part of my successful teams.

“I’d like to thank those at Rugby Australia and for the Waratahs for backing me and I’ll be doing all that I can to repay that faith over the next few years.”

Porecki’s path to international honours is unique. The 31-year-old played one Super Rugby match for the ‘Tahs before leaving Australia to pursue an opportunity overseas.

After five seasons in England with Saracens and London Irish, Porecki returned to Australia and the ‘Tahs ahead of Super Rugby in 2020. But an injury ruled out any chance of a national call-up.

But Porecki continued to chip away and he was eventually rewarded for his consistency at the set-piece and leadership around the park with a Wallabies debut two years ago.

“To have a player and person of David’s calibre re-commit long-term is hugely positive for Australian rugby,” Rugby Australia CEO Phil Waugh added.

“Dave’s been a consistent performer for the Wallabies since returning home and we’re looking forward to seeing him continue to represent his state and country with pride over the next few years.”

Porecki debuted for the NSW Waratahs in 2015 against the Cheetahs in Bloemfontein. Following the previously mentioned stint overseas, he’s gone on to play 36 Super Rugby matches.

“For David to have started in every Test in 2023 and finish with the World Cup campaign as captain speaks volumes to his value he can add to a playing group,” Waratahs coach Darren Coleman said.

“He’s measured, mature and has a drive for perfection. He puts his body on the line week In, week out.

“David is also a keeper of standards in our group and is a great mentor to the other hookers in our program. It’s a great signing for the Tahs.”